5 Unique Features Of The Embraer A-29 Super Tucano

The Embraer EMB Super Turano (A-29) is a multi-mission aircraft designed and developed by the Brazilian manufacturer Embraer. The A-29 is known for its flexibility and maneuverability across the spectrum of missions, including attack, reconnaissance, and training.

Designed to withstand extreme environments and ground conditions, the aircraft’s global presence has been increasing. This article notes some unique features of the A-29 Super Tucano.

1

Designed for austere environments

It can withstand extreme ground and environmental conditions

• Semi-prepared runways
• Forward operating bases
• Desert / sandy environments
• Hot & high operation
• High-density altitudes
• High humidity conditions

The Embraer EMB Super Tucano is designed to operate in all kinds of environments and ground conditions. From high-density altitudes and desert environments to semi-prepared airfields, the A-29 is a robust machine. The aircraft has been certified for a variety of civilian and military applications, allowing operators worldwide more flexibility.

Photo: Embraer

According to Embraer,

“Complies with the most stringent civilian and military requirements for safe and cost-effective operational use. High fatigue life, rugged landing gear for operations on semi-prepared runways, bird impact resistant windshield, corrosion protected to withstand aggressive environments.”

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2

A worldwide presence

Used by 16 air forces

Embraer claims that the A-29 Super Tucano is the world leader in its category which is evident from its worldwide presence. Currently, 16 global air forces use the type and the list continues to grow as more orders are being fulfilled. A total of 260 aircraft have been ordered and over half a million flight hours have been flown on the type.

The aircraft’s unique characteristics make it a flexible, affordable, and low-risk choice for air forces. The low-risk aircraft procurement and maintenance enables greater mission flexibility and fleet optimization. Its multi-mission capability, combined with the latest technology systems, makes a big difference for military operations worldwide.

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3

A highly survivable aircraft

Active and passive survivability features

• High lethality and attack effectiveness
• Comprehensive self-protection
• Highly maneuverable
• Enhanced situational awareness

The A-29 Super Turano offers various operational solutions within a single platform, enabling more operational flexibility. The aircraft is highly survivable due to its reliable performance, accurate targeting identification, and comprehensive communication systems.

The philosophy of on-condition maintenance does not compromise the safety of the aircraft. According to Embraer,

“Minimal infrastructure and ground support required. Quick fault identification and ease of correction. Intensive use of on-condition maintenance concept. MSG-3 based Maintenance Program ensuring High Operational Safety and Minimum Costs.”

The aircraft is equipped with active and passive survivability features that ensure flight safety and increase the mission’s reliability. According to Embraer,

“… Capability is enhanced further by advanced HMI avionics system integrated with a rugged airframe capable of operating from unpaved runways, at high levels of active and passive survivability features.”

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4

The only 3-in-1 aircraft by design

Offers high-performance solutions in three segments

1. Light attack
2. Armed reconnaissance
3. Tactical trainer

Embraer states that the A-29 is the only purpose-designed aircraft with high-performance solutions in three segments. Light attack, armed reconnaissance, and tactical training. As a light attack platform, the aircraft offers close air support (CAS), air interdiction, air patrol, and tactical and forward air coordination.

Photo: InsectWorld | Shutterstock

The armed reconnaissance platform offers border surveillance, aerial escort, armed ISR, and exclusive zone patrolling. As a tactical trainer, the A-29 can carry out advanced training missions, including lead-in fighter training, JTAC and FAC training, and operational training of pilots.

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5

Day & Night operations

• Hardly detectable by radars
• Low noise levels
• Low visual signature
• Target identification
• Information gathering

The A-29 Super Turano is capable of performing day and night operations efficiently and effectively. The aircraft is designed to accurately identify and detect targets, even at night. Moreover, its own visual signature and noise footprint make it difficult to detect.

Photo: ThalesAntonio | Shutterstock

Embraer states,

“The A-29 Super Turano is by design a low footprint aircraft, hardly detectable by radars, with low noise level and visual signature.”

Embraer shows that efficient systems onboard the aircraft allow for detecting ground vehicles as far as 31 NM (57 km). The state-of-the-art sensors deliver superior results in reconnaissance missions.

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